I've been in the job search universe many times in the past, most recently since January 19, 2009 when the company I worked for decided to scale back to 2005-06 levels. No hard feelings. I understand that in today's economy, things happen.
By extension, things happen for a reason. Or so they say.
Today, I bought generic business cards online. I read somewhere that it was a good idea. You're supposed to hand them out when you are networking, working the crowd so to speak, so people can get in touch with you if they need you or want you to come to work for them. They were 'free' except for the shipping and handling and you could add window decals, car magnets, T-shirts, return address labels and a whole bunch of other stuff (for a price...everything has a price). I had a 2009 calendar put on the back of mine for an extra $2.99. My tagline was "Pursuing excellence since 1976", the year I graduated from college.
I also read somewhere that it was a good idea to start a job blog so you could invite potential employers to read what you've been doing with your time since you got laid off. I got tired of watching Billy Mays and "Fritz" trying to sell me stuff I don't need on TV. So, I started this blog.
Some of today's thoughts, inspired (or borrowed) by job search gurus and other predators:
- I borrowed this from one predator. Sometimes, you reach a critical point in your life when you have to decide if you want to continue doing what you're doing. You have to ask yourself whether or not it's time to pursue something new and different and challenging. And if you decide that it is, you then have to find something that is going to hold your interest and captivate your focus.
- I like helping my fellow former co-workers get their process going. Some are still wandering aimlessly, trying to figure out what they want to do or what to do next. Some are considering career changes or re-entering or returning to a former career path. Some are toying with the idea of starting their own business. Some are still stunned and in a rut. Those still fighting the desperation and hopelessness they are feeling are the ones I like to help. I suggest 'keywords', action words, resume formats. I send them websites that will help them create a resume. Some appreciate the help. Most take the advice and get started right away
- Your network of friends and former coworkers can hold you back. Even the most well meaning of your network contacts can dampen your optimism when you explain that you are contemplating a career change, even if it does mean taking a cut in pay. It makes me wonder if they are trying to help you or hold you back or if they wish they were in your position--at a critical juncture in your life and facing such monumental and life changing decisions.
- A job search can be frustrating and depressing. No matter how good your resume is, no matter how good a match you are for a job, sometimes, you just don't get the call, never mind the interview, and much less, the job. It's understandable. With millions of resumes on Careerbuilder.com and Monster.com and other job search sites, you gotta be really lucky to get noticed. That's why career change is so attractive to some of us. A fresh start, a new challenge, a new learning experience.
- Some potential employers, like insurance companies or businesses trying to get you to 'be your own boss' are predators. Some 'opportunities' you see online are not much more than businesses trying to sell you a book that will explain to you the secrets of real estate or 'the art of selling', luring you and your $29.95 to your financial and emotional freedom. These opportunities are also known as scams to those who live in a relatively unadventurous comfort zone.
